Vileika Court turns down complaint by local UCPB activist

Vileika District Court has turned down a complaint by a local UCPB activist Uladzimir Maliarchuk against the restrictions of meeting and picket locations.In her verdict, Judge Alena Artsimovich says that ‘decisions concerning locations of mass actions, as well as restricted locations, are within the jurisdiction of local executive and regulatory authorities.’According to Mr.Maliarchuk, Vileika town authorities have assigned two locations for holding pickets and meetings, both situated on the town outskirts. In his complaint, he said that locations assignment itself ‘is an illegal restriction of citizens’ rights and freedoms.’ The activists demanded to lift any restrictions, since they ‘do not meet Constitutional and international standards.’Uladzimir Maliarchuk also says he is going to appeal the decision at Minsk Regional Court. In case the verdict is reaffirmed, he is going to submit a complaint to the UN Human Rights Committee.